Project Management Foundation

“Okay, George, let’s tell them straight.” Ahmad cannot wait—he is itching to talk. “We want to found a community center, and this is quite complicated for our simple brains. An accountant and an HR guy don’t know much about developing such a center. Then we remembered the dinner when you explained SMART goals and project management,” Ahmad says. “And we want the beautiful Qudss to manage this project,” George adds. “Where is this center?” Furat asks. “Lebanon. It would be in our village, in the north of the country,” Ahmad says. “But AG, you know I’m happily employed here in Dubai, and this is home. Furthermore, because Furat and I both work here, I can’t manage a project in Lebanon.” “Oh, come on, you can do this in your sleep. We have been checking you out, and from what we hear, you are one of the best consultants and project managers in the region. We didn’t come here only because of friendship, but also because we know you’re trustworthy,” Ahmad explains. “Thank you for the kind words, Ahmad, but I can’t manage a significant project remotely, asleep or awake! I don’t know much about your project yet, but founding even a small community center could take a large deal of effort.” Qudss gave in to AG’s enthusiasm with a small sigh. “Oh well—tell me about your project anyway.” “You know we inherited land from our dad, and we want to use one of properties for the site of a community center. We don’t have cash, but we have the land,” Ahmad says. “Since we don’t have cash, the first thing we want is for you to put a SMART project plan together for us on how to rob a bank so we can take from the rich and give to the poor. Remember, it has to be smart since we want to achieve our goal, and a dumb plan will get us caught,” George says, trying his best to keep a straight face. “Oh hush, George!” Ahmad says. “Furat, Qudss, we don’t have cash, but we intend to establish a foundation and get donors to support the project . We can raise money from people and companies, establish the foundation, develop a plan for the center, build it, and manage it. Because we care so much about this initiative, I will be leaving Saudi Arabia and going back to Lebanon. I’ve found a job there that will allow me to be close to home to work on this project, but I know nothing about managing and we want to do it right.” “I have the answer for you, AG!” Qudss says with a big smile. ”Why not have Ahmad manage the project and George can help with PR and stakeholder relations?” “Qudss, what are stakeholders?” George asks. “Stakeholders are those who would be involved or impacted by this project, such as potential investors, donors, the community, and others,” Furat says. “But I don’t know anything about management,” Ahmad protests. “You won’t be alone,” Qudss continues. “You’ll have George helping you.” “George, helping? Yep, he’ll help by joking his way through the project.” “Hey, brother, how about a little respect?” George says, half-joking. “What I’m saying is that I think you, Ahmad, have an exceptional deal of passion for this project so you should manage it. George is more of a people person than you are so he can help with the stakeholders.” “Okay, but …” “Let me finish, Ahmad,” Qudss says. “I’ll coach you through it.” “Coach me? How?” “I’ll guide you and explain the steps for you, but you have to do the work yourself. When you need me you can reach me by phone or online.” “That sounds appealing but is that enough? Can’t we both manage the project?” Ahmad asks. Qudss addresses both brothers. “In project management there must be one manager. George the clown, you show a radiating passion that is ideal for the role I have described. With Furat in marketing and my experience in coaching and project management, we’ll make a fabulous team.” She turns to Ahmad and says, “But you must assume responsibility for managing the project.” “Fine—I can live with that. I trust you,” Ahmad says. “Qudss, I’m jealous! You will coach Ahmad, but how about me? Maybe you can coach me and I’ll still have a chance to steal you from Furat!” George says. “Keep dreaming,” Qudss says. “Best of all, AG, you don’t have to pay to hire us!” Qudss continues. “What do you mean, we don’t have to pay?” Ahmad asks. Qudss looks questioningly at Furat, and he gives a small nod. “We’ll volunteer!” She says. “It will be our honor to help you.” Furat agrees.